Prominent Croatian artist Ivana Bajec exhibits at Karpuchina Gallery

In her work, Ivana Bajec deals primarily with the human psyche disrupted by today’s times, she examines the complexities of perceiving news from the media and the wider impact of internet culture. The artist uses the language of the digital world to express psychological problems, apparently precisely to emphasize it as their mastermind. In contrast to the subject, her large-format paintings are characterized by often expressive, even cheerful colors and an energetic combination of abstract and figurative elements. Above all, her works provide a new perspective on cultural phenomena and offer viewers a reflection of their own experiences. Exhibition titled Forget Forgot Forgottenwill take place from 13 April to 26 May 2024 at Karpuchina Gallery, Rybná 22, Prague 1.

” Painting sometimes seems selfish and unnecessary to me. With all the content online, it seems like everything has already been done and I can’t change the world with my stupid job. But what can I do? The process makes me happy, so I paint.” – Ivana Bajec, artist

At the core of Ivana Bajec’s work lies a deep exploration of mental health – thread that weaves through each composition. This subject is often hidden beneath the surface, but Bajec addresses it with understanding and empathy. It confronts the complexity of human experience and offers glimpses into the hidden spaces of the inner nature of man. Each image thus becomes a mirror that reflects the joys and sorrows, hopes and fears that make up our insides.

The central motif of the Croatian artist’s works is the celebration of the digital spirit of the age, where internet and social media phenomena become the building blocks of artistic expression. But the juxtaposition of symbols, abstract and figurative elements reveals a deeper narrative that speaks to the complexity of maintaining mental stability in the digital age. Through a delicate balance of humor and introspection, Bajec addresses the anxieties and pressures deeply rooted in our hyper-connected society and offers a reflection on human nature.

“Forget Forgot Forgotten” isn’t just a name, it’s a mantra – a call to accept the fleeting nature of memory and the mysterious depths of the human psyche. Through his expressive brushstrokes and occasional subtle symbolism, Bajec invites us on a journey of memories and relaxation, where the border between past and present blends into a kaleidoscope of senses.“ – Eneja Urnaut, exhibition curator

Ivana Bajec (Pula, *1990) is engaged in drawing, graphic art and painting. She completed her bachelor’s and master’s studies in painting at the Academy of Fine Arts in Ljubljana. She participated in many group and individual exhibitions in Slovenia, Croatia, Romania and Germany. Her presentation at Ravnikar Gallery Space (2021) and at the SWAB Barcelona art fair deserve special mention. In her artistic creation, she prefers improvisation, experimentation and exploration, with her canvases often serving as painted diaries combining abstraction and elusive humorous depictions that capture everyday impressions, feelings and fragments. As a result, her artistic expression becomes rather spontaneous and playful, imbued with a sharp and sometimes provocative style.

Photo by Mario Zupanov